New events centre opens, A-G hails investor confidence

THE opening of the ultra-modern Nadi Events Centre at Votualevu is another sign of continuing investor confidence in the country, says Attorney-General and Minister for Industry and Trade Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.

"As has been highlighted by the Prime Minister, only a few years ago the banks were lending about $350million a year to the private sector in the overall economy," he said.

"Today, banks are lending in excess of $1.2billion.

"In other words, the banks are feeling confident to lend and people are feeling confident to borrow.

"The reason why they're doing that is because they believe that the economic climate is right, it is suitable and appropriate for getting a return on their investment."

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum commended the owner of the development, Bobby Khan, for deciding to return to Fiji nd invest in Votualevu after living in New Zealand for 25 years.

Mr Khan said the decision to build a modern events centre with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment in the suburb was made to ensure locals had access to a quality venue to hold important events.

"This project took nine months to complete," he said.

"The thought of making such a venue came to mind as I discovered people had no choice when it came to looking for venues to hold grand celebrations."

The Nadi Events Centre has the capability to seat 500 people in a dining layout and 1200 people in an auditorium-style seating.